Brand Names: Clarinex, Clarinex Reditabs

Generic Name: Desloratadine (DES lor A ta deen)

What is Clarinex?

Clarinex is used to treat the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose. It is also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions.

Clarinex is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Clarinex may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

How Taken

Clarinex comes in tablets to take by mouth. It can be taken with or without food and is usually taken once daily. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Clarinex exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Warnings/Precautions

Before taking Clarinex, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antihistamine; kidney disease; or liver disease. You may not be able to take Clarinex, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above. Clarinex is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Clarinex will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Clarinex without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Clarinex passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take Clarinex without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Clarinex. More common side effects may include: dry mouth, fatigue, sleepiness, sore throat. Less common side effects may include: dizziness, dry throat, flu-like symptoms, muscle pain, nausea. Rare side effects may include: acute allergic reaction, hives, itching, rapid heartbeat, rash, shortness of breath, swelling.

Storage

Store at room temperature. Protect from heat. Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.

Overdose

Little is known about the effects of a Clarinex overdose. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of Clarinex overdose may include: rapid heartbeat, sleepiness.

More Information

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Although unlikely, Clarinex may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about Clarinex.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.